This MCQ module is based on: The World of Limitless Possibilities — Dr. Deepa Malik
TOPIC 13 OF 24
The World of Limitless Possibilities — Dr. Deepa Malik
🎓 Class 9
English
CBSE
Theory
Ch 5 — The World of Limitless Possibilities
⏱ ~30 min
🌐 Language: [gtranslate]
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This assessment will be based on: The World of Limitless Possibilities — Dr. Deepa Malik
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Before You Read
Unit 5 — The World of Limitless Possibilities | Reflect & Respond
Vocabulary Warm-up
Match each word to its meaning:
resilience | inclusivity | trailblazer | fortitude
resilience — the capacity to recover quickly from setbacks |
inclusivity — treating all people equally, regardless of ability |
trailblazer — a pioneer who opens a new path for others |
fortitude — mental and emotional strength to face adversity
Anticipation Guide
Agree or disagree? "A physical disability prevents a person from achieving greatness in sports."
Disagree. Dr. Deepa Malik's story proves that para-athletes compete at the highest global level. The Paralympics is a testament to the fact that ability and achievement go far beyond physical limitations.
Think & Predict
You will read an interview with Sheetal Devi, a para-archer honoured with the Arjuna Award. What qualities do you think she possesses?
Expected qualities: extraordinary focus, determination, courage, physical dexterity adapted to her unique style, mental resilience, and the ability to defy expectations. The unit explores these qualities through both Sheetal Devi and Dr. Deepa Malik.
KWL — Paralympics
What do you know about Paralympics? What do you want to know?
The Paralympics originated in 1948 in England for war veterans with spinal injuries. India debuted in 1968, winning its first medal in swimming in 1972. The Games are held in the same host city as the Olympics and are split into Summer and Winter editions.
Content Type: Non-Fiction Interview |
Genre: Inspirational / Biographical |
Central Figure: Dr. Deepa Malik — Para-Athlete, Advocate, Khel Ratna Awardee
Theme Web — The World of Limitless Possibilities
Click on any theme node to explore its connection to the text
Resilience — Dr. Malik was diagnosed with a spinal tumour at 29 and told she would be wheelchair-bound for life. Instead of despair, she chose to transform her situation into a world of limitless possibilities. Her journey demonstrates that mental resilience is as vital as physical strength — overcoming societal underestimation required relentless determination. "obstacles into stepping stones"
Inclusivity — Dr. Malik's advocacy mission focuses on ensuring that people with disabilities receive equal treatment, opportunity, and dignity. She organises disability sports awareness sessions, supports persons from lower socio-economic backgrounds, and empowers women through outdoor activities. The goal: a society where everyone has a fair chance to succeed. Symbolism Paralympics as platform for inclusion
Talent & Achievement — Silver medal at the 2016 Rio Paralympics; first Indian woman to win an Asian Games medal in para-athletics; multiple national awards including Khel Ratna, Arjuna, and Padma Shri. These achievements demonstrate that talent transcends physical form, challenging the notion that disability limits potential. Imagery "strength, skill, and competitive spirit"
Social Change — When spectators witness para-athletes competing at the highest level, preconceived notions about disability dissolve. Dr. Malik believes that the Paralympics has extraordinary power to shift cultural attitudes, change perceptions, and demonstrate that individuals with disabilities are as capable as — and often more motivated than — their able-bodied peers. Irony Disability as unique strength
Advocacy — Dr. Malik proactively works to strengthen the emotional health of persons facing challenges. She provides equipment to para-sportspersons and partners with schools and colleges to conduct disability awareness sessions. Her philosophy: "Youth is the voice of tomorrow" — making the next generation ambassadors of inclusivity. Personification "misfortune raised its ugly head"
Reading for Meaning
Introduction — The World of Paralympics
1
Have you ever wondered what unfolds when remarkable athletes overcome seemingly impossible odds to display their exceptional abilities on the world stage? Welcome to the realm of the Paralympic Games — a spectacular celebration of resilience and the extraordinary gifts of athletes living with locomotor, sensory, or intellectual disabilities. The Paralympics transcends mere competition: it works to quell damaging stereotypes and fundamentally redefine what human beings are capable of. Personification
2
India's journey with the Paralympic movement began in 1968, and the country claimed its first medal in swimming just four years later, in 1972. Since those pioneering days, numerous Indian Paralympians have carried the nation's honour with great pride. Among the most outstanding of these champions is Dr. Deepa Malik — honoured with the Khel Ratna, Arjuna Award, and Padma Shri — whose enduring influence has inspired countless aspiring athletes across the country. Read the inspiring interview that follows. "carried the nation's honour"
The Interview — Dr. Deepa Malik Speaks
Section A — Journey & Breakthrough
Interviewer
Good day, ma'am! It is truly my privilege to have the chance to speak with such a celebrated personality in the world of Paralympic sports.
Dr. Malik
Thank you! I am deeply honoured to be here.
Interviewer
You have been recognised as one of the ten most inspirational women para-athletes in the world by the International Paralympic Committee. How did you find the courage to face such enormous challenges and become the person you are today?
Dr. Malik
I was twenty-nine when a devastating tragedy entered my life — I was diagnosed with a spinal tumour. I underwent surgery, but misfortune raised its ugly head again. Personification The doctors told me I would remain bound to a wheelchair for the remainder of my life, as I was paralysed from the waist downwards. Two choices lay before me: squander my existence in remorse, or transform it into a world of limitless possibilities.
Dr. Malik (continued)
My love for sports — I had been a swimmer — guided my decision to shift to para-athletics. This is how my Paralympics journey was born. The defining moment arrived at the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games, when I claimed the silver medal in shot-put. Looking back, I recognise it as both a deeply personal triumph and a meaningful step toward changing how society views disability.
Section B — Accomplishments & Challenges
Interviewer
You are a true trailblazer — the very first Indian woman para-athlete to win an Asian Games medal in athletics and India's first female Paralympic medallist across any sport. You have also received numerous coveted awards. What do these accomplishments mean to you personally?
Dr. Malik
I genuinely value the accolades that have come my way. Each one is a testament to my firm belief that physical limitations do not define a person's potential. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy — "ability beyond disability." Symbolism
Interviewer
Could you share some of the challenges you encountered on your path, and how you overcame them?
Dr. Malik
One of the most significant challenges was the weight of social perceptions. People frequently underestimated what I was capable of. Moving beyond this required not only physical strength but also deep mental resilience. I consciously embraced each challenge as an opportunity to demonstrate my abilities. The steadfast support of my family, combined with my own fortitude, enabled me to turn every obstacle into a stepping stone. "stepping stones"
Section C — Impact of Paralympics & Advocacy
Interviewer
Your story is a powerful testament to determination. How do you believe the Paralympics can challenge societal stereotypes?
Dr. Malik
Sport — and the Paralympics in particular — has an extraordinary capacity to dismantle stereotypes and reshape attitudes toward disability. When the public witnesses the strength, technical skill, and competitive drive of para-athletes, their preconceived notions begin to crumble. The Paralympics gave me a new lease of life and helped me push boundaries I once thought were fixed. It made me realise that individuals with disabilities can be just as capable — and at times even more so — than their able-bodied counterparts. Imagery
Interviewer
Beyond the medals, you have become a vocal champion of inclusivity and accessibility. How do you view your role in advocating for disability rights?
Dr. Malik
Advocacy sits at the heart of my mission. I believe deeply in working to strengthen the emotional well-being of persons with challenges and in empowering women through outdoor sports and adventure activities. I also support individuals from lower socio-economic backgrounds and provide equipment to para-sportspersons. Youth, I believe, is the voice of tomorrow — so we conduct disability sports awareness and advocacy sessions at schools and colleges nationwide. My ultimate goal is to help build a society where every individual, regardless of ability, is treated with dignity and given a fair opportunity to succeed.
Interviewer
Finally, what would you say to those facing challenges or setbacks — particularly people with disabilities — who aspire to achieve their goals?
Dr. Malik
I would say this: every setback is an opportunity to demonstrate your true strength. Build a strong support system around you, believe wholeheartedly in yourself, and let your journey light the way for others. Remember — disability is not a limitation. It is a unique strength waiting to be unleashed.
Vocabulary Builder — Unit 5 Key Words
resilience
noun
The ability to recover quickly from setbacks, difficulties, or adversity
"Her resilience was evident when she returned to training just months after surgery."
quell
verb
To overcome, suppress, or put an end to something (e.g., fears, doubts, stereotypes)
"The Paralympic Games help quell the mistaken belief that disabled persons cannot compete at the highest level."
indelible
adjective
Permanent, enduring; impossible to erase or forget
"Her achievements have left an indelible mark on Indian sports history."
squander
verb
To waste something valuable, such as time, opportunity, or talent
"She refused to squander her potential despite the adversity she faced."
remorse
noun
Deep regret or guilt about one's actions or circumstances
"Living in remorse would have prevented her from discovering new possibilities."
trailblazer
noun
A pioneer who creates a new path or sets a precedent for others to follow
"As a trailblazer in para-athletics, she opened doors for future generations."
accolades
noun (plural)
Praise, recognition, and awards given in acknowledgement of exceptional achievement
"The accolades she received reflected years of dedication and sacrifice."
fortitude
noun
Courage and strength of mind in facing pain, adversity, or difficult circumstances
"Her fortitude during the most difficult years of her illness was remarkable."
proponent
noun
A person who actively supports or promotes a particular cause, idea, or belief
"As a proponent of inclusive sports, she campaigned vigorously for equal facilities."
preconceived notions
noun phrase
Fixed opinions or beliefs formed without sufficient knowledge or evidence
"The games broke down preconceived notions about what disabled athletes could achieve."
advocating
verb (present participle)
Publicly supporting or recommending a particular cause or policy
"She has spent years advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities."
unleashed
verb (past participle)
Released something powerful that was previously held back or restrained
"Through sport, she unleashed a potential that her disability had never truly diminished."
Notice These Expressions — Idioms & Phrases
defy the odds — to succeed when success seems impossible; to achieve against all expectations
a new lease of life — a fresh start; renewed energy and enthusiasm after a difficult period
in hindsight — looking back at something after it has occurred, with the benefit of knowing the outcome
breakthrough moment — a significant point that leads to major progress or development
turn obstacles into stepping stones — transform difficulties into opportunities for growth and advancement
raised its ugly head — (of something bad) appeared again unexpectedly
push boundaries — to go beyond established limits of what is thought possible
a testament to — clear proof or evidence of something
Check Your Understanding
Fact Table — Dr. Deepa Malik
L1 Remember At what age was Dr. Malik diagnosed with a spinal tumour?
Dr. Deepa Malik was diagnosed with a spinal tumour at the age of 29.
L1 Remember What was the result of her surgery?
The surgery did not restore her mobility. The doctors declared that she would be permanently paralysed from the waist down and would remain wheelchair-bound for the rest of her life.
L1 Remember Who named her as one of the 10 most inspirational women para-athletes?
The International Paralympic Committee named Dr. Deepa Malik as one of the 10 most inspirational women para-athletes globally.
L1 Remember What was her first successful Paralympic event and medal?
She won a silver medal in the shot-put event at the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games.
Fact-Opinion & Cause-Effect Analysis
L2 Understand Classify the following pairs as Fact-Opinion or Cause-Effect: (i) "In the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games, I secured the silver medal in the shot-put event." / "I feel it was a moment of personal victory and a step forward in changing perceptions."
This is an example of Fact-Opinion. The first sentence is a verifiable fact (a medal was won at a documented sporting event). The second sentence is Dr. Malik's personal opinion or reflection on the significance of that achievement.
L2 Understand Classify: (i) "I was diagnosed with a tumour in my spine." / (ii) "I had a surgery and was told I would be bound to a wheelchair for the rest of my life."
This is an example of Cause-Effect. The cause is the spinal tumour diagnosis and the surgery. The direct effect was the medical verdict of permanent paralysis, binding her to a wheelchair.
Critical Reflection — Long-Answer Questions
L4 Analyse Explain how Dr. Malik's achievements challenge societal perceptions about disability. (100–120 words)
Dr. Deepa Malik's achievements systematically dismantle the harmful assumption that physical disability equates to limited capability. By becoming India's first female Paralympic medallist, winning an Asian Games medal in athletics, and receiving the nation's highest sporting honours, she demonstrated in concrete, measurable terms that para-athletes compete at the same elite level as able-bodied athletes. Every award and record serves as evidence against the stereotype that disability is a barrier to greatness. Moreover, she actively shifted perceptions during the process — her silver medal at Rio was, as she described it, not merely a personal triumph but a step toward changing how society thinks about disabled individuals. Her life story reframes disability as a different form of ability.
L5 Evaluate "Every setback is an opportunity to prove your strength." Evaluate how this can serve as a life lesson for all individuals, not just sportspersons. (100–120 words)
Dr. Malik's maxim carries universal relevance because setbacks are an inevitable part of every human life — in academics, relationships, careers, and personal growth. The wisdom in this statement lies in the shift of perspective: instead of treating failure as an endpoint, one views it as a proving ground. A student who fails an examination and uses it to identify gaps in their preparation; a professional who loses a job and uses the experience to develop new skills; a young person who faces rejection and uses it to build emotional resilience — all embody this philosophy. The capacity to convert difficulty into determination is the foundation of long-term success in any walk of life.
L5 Evaluate Rationalise the appropriateness of the title "The World of Limitless Possibilities" with reference to Dr. Malik's attitude and achievements. (100–120 words)
The title is deeply apt and multi-layered. On the literal level, it echoes Dr. Malik's own words when she describes choosing to transform her life "into a world of limitless possibilities" instead of surrendering to remorse. On the symbolic level, the title captures the broader message of the text: that human potential is not bounded by physical condition. Dr. Malik's achievements — from international medals to national advocacy — are real-world proof that possibilities are created by mindset, not physical circumstance. The title also functions as an invitation to readers: it challenges them to re-examine their own perceived limitations and approach life with the same expansive outlook that Dr. Malik embodies.
L6 Create How might Dr. Malik's thought, "ability beyond disability", serve as a guiding philosophy for all future para-athletes? (100–120 words)
"Ability beyond disability" functions as both a personal mantra and a public declaration. For future para-athletes, it provides a mental framework that prioritises what the body and mind can do rather than what they cannot. It encourages athletes to focus on developing and honing their unique strengths rather than comparing themselves to able-bodied norms. The philosophy also speaks to coaches, selectors, and sports administrators: it asks them to evaluate athletes on the basis of demonstrated skill and competitive drive, not medical classification. As a guiding principle for the broader para-sports ecosystem, it creates a culture of high aspiration, dignity, and mutual respect — the foundation that true sporting excellence is built upon.
Extract-Based Questions (CBSE Format)
Extract 1 — The Turning Point
"I had two choices — squander my life in remorse or transform it to a world of limitless possibilities. I love sports and had been a swimmer too, so I decided to switch to para-athletics. This is how my Paralympics journey began. My breakthrough moment came in the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games, when I secured the silver medal in the shot-put event. In hindsight, I feel it was a moment of personal victory and a step forward in changing perceptions."
(i) L2 Why does the speaker say her decision to transform her life is similar to the metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly?
Just as a caterpillar undergoes a complete transformation to emerge as a butterfly — moving from a crawling existence to one of freedom and beauty — Dr. Malik transformed a life of physical restriction into one of extraordinary achievement. She chose to undergo a personal metamorphosis: rather than being defined by paralysis, she redefined herself as a competitive athlete and international champion, discovering a new and vibrant form of existence.
(ii) L2 Why could the speaker switch to para-athletics comfortably?
The speaker had a pre-existing love of sports and had previously been a competitive swimmer. This foundation of athletic discipline, physical conditioning, and competitive mindset made the transition to para-athletics a natural progression. Her sporting background gave her the mental framework and physical awareness needed to adapt to a new discipline.
(iii) L3 Complete the sentence: The speaker calls the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games a 'breakthrough moment' because __________.
...it was the culmination of years of disciplined training and represented both her first Paralympic medal (silver in shot-put) and a significant public demonstration that women with physical disabilities could compete — and win — on the world's greatest sporting stage, thereby shifting perceptions about disability.
(iv) L4 The phrase "in hindsight" indicates the speaker is: A. curious B. reflective C. determined D. courageous
B. Reflective. "In hindsight" specifically means looking back at something after it has already happened and evaluating it with the understanding one has gained since. This is a reflective act — the speaker is revisiting the significance of her achievement with the perspective that time has provided.
(v) L5 List one perception the speaker might have changed through her 2016 achievement.
One key perception she likely changed: the widespread belief that women with physical disabilities are incapable of competing at the international level. By winning India's first female Paralympic medal, she provided undeniable proof that para-athletes — regardless of gender — can achieve on the world stage, inspiring others to pursue sport despite physical challenges.
Extract 2 — The Power of Sport
"Honestly, I feel sports, especially Paralympics, have the extraordinary ability to challenge stereotypes and change attitudes towards disability. When people witness the strength, skill, and competitive spirit of para-athletes, it breaks down preconceived notions. Paralympics has given me a new lease of life and helped me push boundaries."
(i) L2 The tone of the speaker in this extract is: (a) appreciative and optimistic (b) moralistic and sentimental (c) sentimental and defensive (d) defensive and appreciative
(a) appreciative and optimistic. The speaker genuinely appreciates the role of the Paralympics in transforming her life and societal attitudes. The tone is forward-looking and positive — she believes in the power of sport to create change, which is an optimistic stance.
(ii) L3 Complete the analogy: ability : potential :: preconceived notions : __________.
stereotypes. Just as "ability" is the active expression of one's "potential," "preconceived notions" are the crystallised form of "stereotypes" — fixed judgements formed without adequate knowledge of an individual's actual capabilities.
(iii) L2 True or False: Paralympics is a platform that not only showcases remarkable abilities of para-athletes but also challenges stereotypes.
True. The extract directly states both functions: it "challenges stereotypes and changes attitudes towards disability" AND showcases the "strength, skill, and competitive spirit of para-athletes." Both claims are explicitly supported by the text.
(iv) L4 What does "helped me push boundaries" reveal about the speaker?
The phrase reveals that the speaker is not a passive recipient of circumstance but an active agent who continually stretches her capabilities. It shows her growth-oriented mindset — she did not settle for what was medically declared possible but used the Paralympic platform to surpass those limits, both physically and mentally.
(v) L4 Which phrase from the extract suggests that the speaker was able to transform her life?
"a new lease of life" — this phrase directly conveys renewal and transformation. It suggests that the Paralympics gave the speaker an entirely fresh beginning, revitalising her sense of purpose and possibility after the crisis of her disability.
Grammar Workshop — Modal Auxiliaries & Reported Speech
Modal Auxiliaries — Functions with Examples from the Text
Modal auxiliaries do not change form and are followed by the base form of the verb. Each modal can express multiple functions depending on context.
could — Past Ability
"I could hear the audience clapping." (She had the ability to hear them.)
"I could hear the audience clapping." (She had the ability to hear them.)
couldn't — Impossibility/Inability
"It couldn't be helped." (There was no ability to change the situation.)
"It couldn't be helped." (There was no ability to change the situation.)
should — Obligation/Advice
"I should give it my best shot." (Moral duty to try fully.)
"I should give it my best shot." (Moral duty to try fully.)
would — Prediction/Future in Past
"I knew if I tried, I would win." (Predicted outcome of effort.)
"I knew if I tried, I would win." (Predicted outcome of effort.)
Steps for Converting Direct Speech to Reported Speech
- Use a reporting verb: said, told, says, replied, remarked, added
- Remove quotation marks and add linking word 'that'
- Shift tense back (present → past; past → past perfect)
- Change pronouns: I → she/he; you → she/he; we → they
- Change time expressions: last night → the previous night; tomorrow → the next day
Worked Example — From the Interview
Direct: The Interviewer said, "You've been listed as one of the 10 most inspirational women para-athletes globally."
Reported: The Interviewer said that she had been listed as one of the 10 most inspirational women para-athletes globally.
Changes: 'said that' added | have been → had been | you → she
Practice — Convert to Reported Speech
Dr. Malik said, "I love sports and had been a swimmer too, so I decided to switch to para-athletics."
Dr. Malik said that she loved sports and had been a swimmer too, and so she had decided to switch to para-athletics.
(Changes: I → she | love → loved | decided → had decided)
(Changes: I → she | love → loved | decided → had decided)
Writing Task — Notice Writing
Format of a Notice
Name of Organisation: School / Club / Association name
NOTICE (heading): Centred, bold, capital letters
Date: Written below the heading
Subject Heading: Brief, informative heading
Body: Answers What? When? Where? Who? Why? (50 words max)
Signature: Name + Designation of the issuer
Word limit: Not more than 50 words for the body. Enclose in a box.
Useful Expressions for Notice Writing
This is to inform all students that…
All interested candidates are requested to…
Registration will be open from [date] to [date]
Interested students may contact the undersigned
The event will be held at [venue] on [date] at [time]
Students are encouraged to participate enthusiastically
Task: The Sports Club of your school is organising an Inter-school Athletic Meet. As the Sports Captain, draft a notice in not more than 50 words asking interested students to register for selection in different events. Include all necessary details and enclose the notice in a box.
GREEN VALLEY PUBLIC SCHOOL
NOTICE
Date: 26 April 2026
Inter-School Athletic Meet — Registration Open
This is to inform all students that our school is hosting the Annual Inter-School Athletic Meet on 15 May 2026 at the school grounds. Students wishing to participate in track, field, or relay events must register with the Sports Captain by 5 May 2026. Trials will be held on 8 May.
Ananya Sharma
Sports Captain, Class IX-A
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main text in Class 9 Kaveri Unit 5?
The main text in Unit 5 is a non-fiction interview with Dr. Deepa Malik, India's first female Paralympic medallist. It explores her journey from a spinal tumour diagnosis to winning a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games, and her ongoing advocacy for persons with disabilities.
What grammar topics are covered in Kaveri Unit 5?
Unit 5 covers modal auxiliaries (could, couldn't, should, would) and their multiple functions (ability, possibility, obligation, prediction, past habit), as well as direct and indirect (reported) speech with worked examples from the interview text.
What are the key vocabulary words in Unit 5 of Kaveri?
Key vocabulary includes: resilience, quell, locomotor, indelible, squander, remorse, trailblazer, accolades, coveted, proponent, fortitude, testament, preconceived notions, inclusivity, advocating, and unleashed. Each word has contextual meaning rooted in the interview text.
What is The World of Limitless Possibilities — Dr. Deepa Malik about in NCERT Class 9 Kaveri?
The World of Limitless Possibilities — Dr. Deepa Malik is from NCERT Class 9 English Kaveri (NEP 2020 textbook) covering literary and language concepts with vocabulary, devices, and CBSE-aligned exercises.
What vocabulary is in The World of Limitless Possibilities — Dr. Deepa Malik?
Key words from The World of Limitless Possibilities — Dr. Deepa Malik are highlighted with contextual meanings, parts of speech, and usage examples in interactive vocabulary modals.
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